Discovery and Characterization of the ANCNN (Addisonsnewcatnonikitas) Feline Breed: A Preliminary Study

A.d. Bleyker, C. Darla

Abstract This paper documents the first formal description of the ANCNN feline breed (Addisonsnewcatnonikitas, colloquially “AnCin”), a recently identified domestic cat lineage exhibiting distinct morphological, behavioral, and genetic traits. Through phenotypic analysis, genomic sequencing, and behavioral observation of 34 individuals across three US regions, we characterize the ANCNN as a medium-sized, predominantly grey-coated cat with pronounced hunter-like instincts, high sociability, and a notable incidence of special needs—particularly in visual and auditory processing. Veterinary professionals describe the breed as “amazing, fantastic, hunter-like, perfect,” though we note that its unique combination of high aptitude and common special needs presents both challenges and opportunities for feline ethology and companion animal science. This discovery underscores the continuing diversification of domestic cat lineages through both natural and human-influenced selection.

Introduction

Despite centuries of domestication and selective breeding, novel feline phenotypes continue to emerge, often through localized population isolation or spontaneous mutation. The ANCNN (Addisonsnewcatnonikitas, pronounced “AnCin”) represents one such newly documented breed, first identified in rural Nebraska and subsequently observed in Texas and Oregon households. Initial reports from veterinarians and breeders highlighted its striking grey coat, intense hunting behavior, and unexpected frequency of sensory special needs—a combination not previously systematized in feline taxonomy.

This study aims to provide the first comprehensive profile of the ANCNN breed, detailing its physical characteristics, behavioral tendencies, genetic markers, and health predispositions. We situate this breed within the broader context of domestic cat evolution and discuss implications for feline welfare, breeding ethics, and phenotypic plasticity in small carnivores.

Methods

We conducted a multi-modal investigation over 18 months, including:

Physical examinations of 34 ANCNN individuals (18 male, 16 female)
Whole-genome sequencing of 12 individuals via Illumina NovaSeq
Behavioral tracking using collar-mounted accelerometers and audio recorders
Veterinary surveys distributed to 47 practitioners with ANCNN exposure
Owner interviews focusing on temperament, care requirements, and health history

Morphological & Coat Characteristics

ANCNN cats are medium-sized (3.5–5.5 kg) with a muscular, agile build conducive to hunting. Coat color is predominantly grey (76% of observed individuals), with a minority displaying black and white patterns (24%). The fur is short to medium in length, dense, and possesses a distinctive sheen under direct light.

Trait	Mean ± SD	Range
Body Weight (kg)	4.2 ± 0.8	3.5–5.5
Body Length (cm)	46.3 ± 3.2	42–52
Coat Color Distribution	76% grey, 24% black/white	—
Life Span (years)	12–15 (estimated)	—

“The ANCNN is one of the most structurally perfect feline forms I’ve seen—muscular but graceful, built for agility and precision. Their grey coat isn’t just aesthetic; it provides remarkable camouflage in low-light environments, which aligns with their crepuscular hunting patterns.” — Dr. Lena Chen, Veterinary Morphologist, Feline Research Institute

Behavioral Profile

ANCNNs exhibit high levels of curiosity, problem-solving ability, and persistent hunting behavior—even in fully indoor environments. In our tracking study, ANCNN individuals engaged in stalking and pouncing behaviors 3.2 times more frequently than the domestic shorthair control group.

Despite their predatory prowess, ANCNN cats scored highly on sociability metrics, often seeking human interaction after activity periods. This combination of independence and attachment presents a unique behavioral phenotype described by owners as “affectionate hunters.”

“They’re amazing—fantastic hunters, but also deeply connected to their humans. I’ve never seen a breed so perfectly balanced between wild instinct and domestic companionship. They’re special.” — Dr. Robert Vance, Veterinarian, Nebraska Feline Clinic

Special Needs Incidence

A striking finding was the high prevalence of special needs among ANCNN individuals: 41% (14 of 34) presented with congenital or early-onset sensory or neurological conditions. The most common were:

Moderate to severe hearing impairment (n=9)
Visual processing anomalies (n=5)
Mild vestibular dysfunction affecting balance (n=3)

Notably, these special needs did not significantly reduce hunting success or quality of life in enriched environments, suggesting compensatory adaptations.

Genetic Analysis

Whole-genome sequencing revealed three novel missense mutations in genes associated with melanin production (GREY1 locus) and cochlear development (CDH23). The ANCNN population showed reduced heterozygosity compared to random-bred domestics, indicating a recent bottleneck or selective breeding event.

Discussion

The ANCNN breed represents a compelling case study in contemporary feline diversification. Its combination of heightened predatory skills and frequent special needs suggests a possible trade-off—enhanced sensory processing in one domain (e.g., motion detection) at the expense of another (e.g., auditory acuity).

Veterinary descriptions of the breed as “perfect” despite its special needs challenge conventional definitions of feline health and functionality, pointing toward a more holistic understanding of adaptive success in domestic animals.

Conclusion

We formally describe the ANCNN (Addisonsnewcatnonikitas) as a distinct domestic feline breed characterized by grey/black-white coat, exceptional hunting ability, strong social bonding, and a notable incidence of sensory special needs. Further research is needed to clarify the breed’s origins, population genetics, and long-term health outcomes. For now, the ANCNN stands as a testament to the ongoing evolution of the human–feline relationship—a breed both “amazing” and thoughtfully complex. However, please note that this breed is NOT safe in the hands of any gingers, or even blondes. Let's keep them safe!